Astute Destination - St Lucia

July 25, 2022 Abbey Coleman

Before we begin, just close your eyes and picture yourself in a sensual paradise. Exploring the golden coastline and crystal waves crashing onto the shore. If you would like this dream to come true, I recommend a trip to Saint Lucia.

Saint Lucia has grown to become one of the most popular Caribbean destinations in the world. This stunning Caribbean island is known for sun-toasted beaches, stunning landscapes covered by the towering twin Pitons and a warm Saint Lucia welcome. But there is so much more to explore.

So, if you haven't already visited this unforgettable paradise island, we have put together a list that will definitely put Saint Lucia first on your bucket list. So let’s begin with the introduction, shall we?

WHERE IS Saint LUCIA?

Saint Lucia, an island state in the Caribbean Sea. It is the second largest of the Windward group in the Lesser Antilles and is located about 24 miles south of Martinique and some 21 miles northeast of Saint Vincent.

The peak time to travel - HIGH and LOW Season

Like any other destination you wish to explore, there are always two questions you ask yourself. When is the right time to travel? And what is the weather like?

If you are 100% sure you want to explore Caribbean Island but are not sure when to go, beware that when it comes to planning a getaway in Saint Lucia, it’s good to know that Saint Lucia has two seasons, wet and dry. The best time to visit Saint Lucia is in the high season, from Mid-December to Mid-April. During this season, you'll experience the most of the tropical sunshine, which is great if you fancy a beach holiday. If you are looking for a more laid-back vibe, the 'wet' season is probably will be your best pick during the months of June to November.

Now, let's get down to business; travel requirements.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Updated entry requirements effective 2 July 2022

As of the 2nd July 2022, all travellers no longer need to quarantine and all fully vaccinated Travellers are no longer required to test for pre-travel. Fully vaccinated travellers must provide a valid vaccination record as requested on check-in, for boarding and on entry to Saint Lucia.

Unvaccinated Travellers

Unvaccinated travellers aged 5 years and older must have a valid negative Standard COVID-19 PCR test done within 5 days prior to arrival.

Required for travel:

Vaccinated Travellers – Your vaccination proof
Unvaccinated Travellers – Your test results
All Travellers – Health Screening Form

The Health Screening Form should be downloaded and printed and must be completed by all passengers 18 years and over before travelling in Saint Lucia. This is for ease of processing on arrival.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

coastal scenery and sandy beaches on a horse

Just picture the scene. Hearing the thud of hooves on the sand as you gallop your horse down a secluded private beach experiencing everything that St Lucia has to offer. Even rookie riders can sign up for treks along the serene country tracks to the golden beaches. As well as riding on the sand, you can even swim with your horse! (If the waves aren’t too strong for them), so be prepared and wear a swimsuit under your clothes.

Going horseback riding in St. Lucia is an experience that you probably never forget. Can’t you picture the coastal scenery and sandy beaches on a horse? If it is your first time riding a horse don’t worry! Your guide matches you with a horse suited to your riding ability and adjusts the tour to your group's level of experience. Your ride provides sweeping views of Anse La Voute, Cas En Bas, and Lapis Bay.

Experience the mesmerizing sunset

Nothing screams holiday as watching the sunset from a yacht as you sail up the west coast of St Lucia. With a glass of champagne in your hand and the warm sea breeze blowing through your hair, you’ll see the Pitons silhouetted against a vibrant sky. There are plenty of boat trips to select from, that will allow you to experience the mesmerizing sunset as you sail through the crystal waters.

Explore the diamond falls botanical gardens

Deep in a sheltered gorge at the foot of the Pitons, the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens is part of the Soufriere Estate, one of the oldest and best-preserved estates on St. Lucia. The gardens sit at the edge of Sulphur Springs Park, and the rich volcanic soil nourishes an incredible collection of tropical plants and flowers.

WHAT TO TRY AND WHERE TO EAT

ARE YOU REALLY ON HOLIDAY IF YOU TRY LOCAL CUISINE?

There are plenty of dishes that you will enjoy in St Lucia. Many of the dishes are loaded with cultural influence, including British and French cuisine. Many meals are infused with herbs and spices that will tickle your taste buds.

Lambi

Conch is popular in the Caribbean, and in Saint Lucia, this traditional meal is often referred to as lambi. The preparation style varies island by island, and in Saint Lucia the dish is often made Creole style, which involves the conch meat being seasoned with lots of spices, and then pan-fried. Lambi is popular with both locals and visitors, and worth a taste while on the island.

Pepperpot

Pepperpot is another favoured Caribbean dish, a particular dish that will probably want to make yourself once you return home. However, the name may suggest otherwise, pepperpot isn’t particularly a spicy dish, but peppers are often used including for flavouring. Other ingredients include onions, garlic, cinnamon, brown sugar, thyme, cloves, orange peel, cassareep and more. Various meats are often included in pepperpot recipes, including cow foot, oxtail, turkey, beef, goat meat, and pork.

Fried Plantains

Fried plantains are addictive, and you’ll find this Caribbean staple on your dish at many local restaurants in Saint Lucia. Whether you just want something to nibble on or a delicious side dish that can be combined into anything from steamed fish dishes to jerk or barbequed meals, fried plantain is sure to hit the spot.

Restaurants

Pink Plantation House

Pink Plantation House is a Creole restaurant overlooking Castries in St. Lucia. The house and art gallery themselves are worth a visit. With the pink, wooden colonial house hidden in the gardens, you'll feel like you've been transported back in time.

From the famous pumpkin soup, which will probably be the best thing you have ever tasted, to fresh locally caught Mahi Mahi, with Creole sauce and sides of roasted vegetables, saffron rice, breadfruit fries, savoury lentils, and more, your tastebuds will get completely spoilt.

The Rum Cave - marigot bay resort

Boasting an intimate and relaxing atmosphere, The Rum Cave is a favourite for enjoying light bites for dinner. With live music some evenings, you can enjoy your meal while listening and watching the local bands perform. Drink up the authentic Caribbean atmosphere as you wine and dine with your loved ones overlooking the beautifully lit lagoon.

The Coal Pot

The Coal Pot is a waterside restaurant overlooking Vigie Marina in Castries, which is just a few minutes away from the cruise ship port. The popular restaurant is named after the traditional Caribbean cooking methods, The Coal Pot combines tradition and modern dining to give you some of the best seafood on the island.

The menu always changes to make full use of the daily catches. Local favourites like calamari Creole and saltfish salad sit alongside pita pockets. The grill menu always has different cuts of steak. If you’re in St Lucia during lobster season, it’s well worth a try. It’s prepared with old-school methods that have been used for generations.

WHERE TO STAY

LUXURY AT ITS FINEST

Rendezvous

St Lucia’s inaugural boutique beachfront resort is an all-inclusive couples’ hideaway that seeps romance and stems beauty.

Rendezvous is a family-run resort, owned and operated by the Barnard family for over half a century. With a reputation for excellence, it’s not a surprise that so many travellers to this resort are wowed by its winning combination of relaxation, high-calibre dining and Caribbean hospitality.

Rendezvous is placed along a wistful two-mile stretch of Malabar Beach, framed by seven acres of breathtaking botanical gardens and a former coconut plantation that seeps history. With over 100 different rooms and suites to select from, you’ll be spoilt for preference in terms of your private, feature-laden accommodation. Each building is equipped in comfortable Caribbean style, with private verandas and patios offering expansive scenery of the Caribbean Sea.

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort

Imagine spending a week in your very own hidden cove in beautiful St Lucia.

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort gives you everything that you could ever imagine. Secluded, in an untouched corner of the island, peace and relaxation come in vast doses at this picture-perfect resort. Having experienced a number of renovations in 2021, including improved restaurants, a beachside fitness facility, a new pool area and refreshed spa, there are plenty more reasons to visit.

To add to its ever-growing charm, the resort has its very own butler service and private plunge pools to give you the ultimate VIP experience. Designed for the ultimate luxury, you’ll be able to take your preference between individually styled chambers and villas and soak up the sun in a private spot during your downtime.

East Winds

Experience the breathtaking tropical garden by the sea. This resort offers a St Lucia luxury holiday of the highest rank.

The East Winds is a private all-inclusive experience that provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of any city around the world. Wake up steps away from Saint Lucia’s most stunning private beach, tucked away amongst picturesque gardens dotted with 26 cottage-style suites. The resort has a wide variety of elegant facilities to suit any preference. Enjoy the taste of Saint Lucia in the beautiful open-air beachside restaurant, where you will enjoy the Caribbean and international cuisine. Then soak up the sunset to the soulful melodies at the Bamboo Lounge.

THE BEST BARS & CLUBS

TIME TO DRINK UP

THE BEST BEACHES

SOAK UP THE SUN

Jalousie beach
Reduit Beach
Pigeon island national landmark
Anse Chasteanet Beach
Anse De Sables

REACH ST LUCIA BY PRIVATE JET

At Astute Aviation, we have access to an extensive range of aircrafts available for charter at affordable jet charter prices.

The fleet provides a variety of amenities, technology, and passenger seating choices, so whether your group is big or small, we can assist you in making the appropriate selection.

AIRPORTS IN SAINT Lucia FOR PRIVATE CHARTER FLIGHTS

Hewanorra Internation Airport (UVF) is quick and seamless for travellers arriving by private jet. The airport transit process could not be easier with a dedicated private jet terminal with comfortable lounges. No waiting times to pass through customs or check-in mean that you can be at the airport for as little as 15 - 30 minutes before departure.

GET A QUICK saint Lucia AIR CHARTER QUOTE

Astute Aviation is committed to providing you with the most luxurious air charter experience possible. Get a quick quote from Astute Aviation to charter a private jet to Ibiza and party up a storm.